New service launched to tackle Domestic Abuse in Brent

4 December 2017

Support for victims of domestic abuse has been given a boost in Brent, as the council launches a new service to make sure that this awful behaviour is tackled head on.

Independent domestic violence advisors, 'Advance', have been awarded a contract to help support an ongoing programme focussed on tackling domestic abuse in the borough and making sure that victims and survivors of abuse get access to the very best support they need, when they need it.

The new programme will focus on intervening in suspected cases of abuse at an earlier stage and increasing awareness of support options available to victims. An increased number of domestic violence advisors will placed in hospitals and police stations around the borough, in order for more victims to be identified early and to improve the speed at which they are given help.

Cllr Tom Miller, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said:

"Domestic abuse is a horrendous crime that shatters lives and we cannot and will not tolerate any form of it here in Brent.

"The extra funding we were awarded earlier this year and this new service will help us in our efforts to make sure that victims and survivors get the right support at the right time, with no victim being turned away from the support they need.

“It’s so important that we all work together to tackle the root causes of domestic abuse and we will continue to work closely with groups and individuals across Brent to make sure we see the number of cases of abuse significantly reduce.”

Whilst women and girls are the most common victims of these crimes, it is important to recognise that men and boys are also at risk of domestic abuse and can access the same support as women and girls.

Need advice?

If you or someone you know is worried about or affected by domestic abuse or violence, confidential specialist help and support is available.

Call the Police on 101 or the Advance Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA) service for independent support and safety planning on 07398 454898.